What does Omega-9 do for you and your period?
Just the other day, as I was thinking that I’d like to write about something interesting in my blog, one of my clients asked me: “What are omega-9s? I saw some interesting supplements in the grocery store...” Wow, I thought! This would be just the perfect topic! :)
Have you heard of omega-9s before? If not, keep reading!
Omega-9 is a beneficial type of fat that is shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, by clearing up “bad” cholesterol and helping to eliminate plaque build-up in the arteries. Some studies show that omega-9 can act as an anti-inflammatory nutrient, and accelerate healing processes and hormonal balance. More than that, omega-9 seems to be responsible for lubricating the intestine and aiding digestion, a crucial point in the context of healthy menstrual cycle.
Interestingly, it can also act as a substitute for its famous counterparts (omega-3 and omega-6 fats) and temporarily take some of their roles on itself if those two essential fats get low. It is not as efficient at doing their jobs, but it tries to hold the balance nevertheless!
So yes, omega-9 is absolutely essential for women's health and various hormones across the menstrual cycle. However, it is referred to as “non-essential” by scientists and nutritionists, because, unlike omega-3 and omega-6 fats that we can only get from the diet, our own body can actually make omega-9s itself and therefore it does not qualify to be labelled “essential”.
That is not to say you don’t need to eat omega-9s, but you definitely don’t need to spend money on supplementing it! You can easily find a healthy amount of omega-9 fats in sunflower oil, almonds, peanuts, sesame seeds, pistachios, pine nuts, chia seeds, avocados and other similar foods!
So there you go! A short story about non-essential but nevertheless essential omega-9s! :)
Need some inspiration? Since avocado is very rich in omega-9 fats and is also a delicious fruit, I thought this RECIPE would be just perfect!
Fun fact: this recipe contains all three: omega-3s, omega-6s AND omega-9s! Enjoy!
Love you all and til next!